What Is a Push Shot in Pool? Meaning, Rules, and How to Avoid It
Quick answer: A push shot in pool is when the cue tip stays in contact with the cue ball for too long, so you push the ball instead of striking it with a clean hit. Under most rules it is a foul. It can happen on very slow shots, on shots where the cue ball is close to another ball, and when a player shoves the cue forward without a real stroke. Note that a push shot is different from a push out, which is a legal option in 9 ball after the break.
Many new players have never heard of a push shot. Learning what it is helps you play fair and avoid giving up ball in hand.
Push Shot vs Push Out
These two sound alike but are very different.
| Term | What it means | Legal? |
|---|---|---|
| Push shot | The tip stays on the cue ball too long | A foul in most rules |
| Push out | A special option in 9 ball right after the break | Legal when the rules allow it |
If you play 9 ball, check your rules for how the push out works.
How a Push Shot Happens
A clean stroke is quick. The tip touches the cue ball for a tiny moment and then the ball leaves. A push shot happens when:
- The player moves the cue forward very slowly while the tip is on the ball.
- The cue ball is so close to another ball that the tip stays on it.
- The player starts with the tip touching the cue ball and then shoves it.
How to Avoid a Push Shot
- Never start your stroke with the tip on the ball. Always start with a small gap.
- Take a real backswing, even on soft shots.
- Use a smooth, short stroke instead of a shove.
- Avoid shooting straight through a ball that is very close. Pick an angle or another shot.
- Practice soft shots. Good touch helps you hit softly without pushing. Read speed control in pool.
Why Push Shots Are Not Allowed
A push lets a player steer the cue ball in ways a normal stroke cannot. That is not fair, so most rules call it a foul. Rules and how they are judged can be different in each league, so read your league’s rule book.
How Referees Spot Push Shots
Referees watch the stroke and the cue ball. A slow, long contact with no clear strike is a common sign. On close shots, they may also look at the path of the cue ball. If you are not sure, ask for a referee to watch the shot before you shoot.
Push Shot vs Double Hit
A push shot is one long touch. A double hit is two quick touches. Both are fouls in most rules. We also have a full page on double hits on this site.
Close Ball Shots
Close shots are where most push shots and double hits happen. Plan ahead so you do not leave the cue ball touching close to another ball. Our guide on how to play position in pool can help.
Practice Drill
Place a cue ball and an object ball about two inches apart. Practice shooting at a slight angle with a short, crisp stroke. Have a friend watch your tip. Then move the balls closer and see how your stroke changes.
The Bottom Line
A push shot is a foul where the cue tip stays on the cue ball too long, pushing it instead of striking it. Always start with a small gap, take a real backswing, and use a crisp stroke. Do not confuse it with the push out, which is a legal 9 ball option after the break.
Keep Reading on This Site
- What Is a Double Hit in Pool? The Foul Explained Simply
- What Is the 90 Degree Rule in Pool? Predict Where the Cue Ball Goes
- How to Play Position in Pool: A Simple Guide to Cue Ball Control
- How to Make Long Shots in Pool: Tips That Actually Help
- How to Use the Diamonds on a Pool Table: A Beginner Guide
- Cheating the Pocket in Pool: What It Means and 5 Ways to Use It
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a push shot a foul?
Yes. Under most rules, a push shot is a foul.
What is the difference between a push shot and a push out?
A push shot is a foul from too long a contact. A push out is a legal 9 ball option after the break.
How do I avoid a push shot?
Start with a small gap between the tip and ball, take a backswing, and use a crisp stroke.
Can a soft shot be a push shot?
A soft shot is fine if it is a clean strike. It becomes a push if the tip stays on the ball too long.